“The simulacrum is never that which conceals the truth–it is the truth which conceals that there is none. The simulacrum is true.”

-Jean Baudrillard

Here’s some truth for you –  your 2010 WBC semi-finalists have been announced! Here they are,  in order of their appearance tomorrow (starting at 8:30 am):

1. Denmark -Soren Stiller Markussen

2. Guatemala – Raul Rodas

3. Mexico – Fabrizio Sencion

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4. Canada – Kyle Straw

5. Honduras – Ana Lucia Lardizabel de Hawit

6. United States – Mike Phillips

7. Australia – Scottie Callaghan

8. Brazil – Yara Castanho

9. Germany – Thomas Schweiger

10. Ireland – Colin Harmon

11. El Salvador – Alejandro Mendez

12. Greece – Stefans Domatiotis

A few thoughts, and then it’s off into the cooling London night. No fewer than 7 countries from the Western Hemisphere have made it through into the next round of competition, and producing countries will be especially well-represented tomorrow. The general buzz seems to lean towards surprise, particularly with the lack of advancement for the UK and Japanese competitors. Though the WBC has always been a bit of a “World Cup” atmosphere, the timing and locale of this year’s competition have only added to that impression, and we’ve been blown away by the flag waving, enthusiasm, and crowd response throughout the event.

Can’t wait for tomorrow.

Your Semi-Finalists

(photo courtesy of Sarah Allen and her awesome coverage at Barista Magazine Pasteboard)

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